It’s Never Too Late To Be Yourself
There is no deadline for becoming yourself.
Many trans people spend years hiding parts of who they are out of fear. Thoughts about safety concerns, family expectations, and uncertainty are haunting all those who don’t feel happy with their birth gender but are worried about addressing their situation.
Some may realize their identity early in life, while for others this is part of a long process of self-discovery. But there is no doubt that the fatigue of faking it, feeling like you have to mask, is real, no matter how old you are when you realize who you are.
As such, transitioning even later in life doesn’t make someone less valid. Age doesn’t determine whether one is more worthy of transitioning. In fact, age should never stand in your way of who you are.
Honoring Your True Self
Living authentically can have a powerful impact on your emotional well-being. Indeed, suppressing your identity means that you have to perform a version of yourself for others that doesn’t relate to the real you. This creates long-term stress and exhaustion.
In fact, many trans adults describe spending years trying to ignore their feelings because of fear of rejection, discrimination, or even destroying existing relationships. As a result, a lot of adults who end up transitioning later in life have already built a career and family responsibilities by the time they finally allow themselves to explore their identity honestly.
In these situations, transitioning may feel even more daunting. However, there is a sense of relief that comes with hiding an important part of yourself no more. That is often why transitioning is described as a way to survive, or the only way to carry on living, such is the price of hiding your true self.
Starting The Journey
What is the first step of transitioning? Naturally, transition pathways, such as feminisation therapies, play an important role in the process. This hormone treatment can be long and demanding on your mind and body, even if this means empowering yourself to be more authentic. So, that is why many suggest discussing the process with a supportive audience first.
Your doctor is, of course, the first person to advise on a healthy transition. But there’s a lot to be said about confiding in a close friend or relative first. There’s no need to start an overwhelming process alone when you can have a supportive person on your side.
A Support System
Unfortunately, not everyone can find support from family and friends. A lot of trans adults experience rejection and distance from loved ones during the early stages of transition. That is why it is essential to build a support system that works for you first.
Friends and relatives who understand your position and are ready to be part of your journey matter. But sometimes, the first support you’ll get comes from local groups and online communities, and these can be just as important for new trans adults.
The Practical Side of Transition
Transitioning also has an administrative side. In the USA, most people need to update legal documents and personal accounts according to their new identity. This can be a long process as there are many changes, such as changing your legal name through the court system and updating your Social Security records.
Additionally, this also includes notifying banks, utility providers, and employers of the change. It can take several months or years to get all your records updated.
Transitioning is challenging at any age, but there is no expiration date on your authentic self.
